“Claro,” “Candela,” what’s the dif?

Q. I’ve always been under the impression that mild, green cigars wereinterchangeably called both “Claro” and “Candela.” Is this true, and where does the term “Cameroon” come into this discussion (or does it?). Thanks, Alan in Corinth, MS

A. Yes, in certain cases, if the cigars are rolled with a green wrapper leaf, the manufacturer may use the term “Claro” or “Candela.” “Candela” is the more appropriate term for the green leaf, which is also referred to as “Jade.” Claro in Spanish means “clear,” or in cigar color terms, “light.” For example, a “Colorado Claro” leaf would be a light brown or tan-colored wrapper like a Connecticut Shade. Since Candela wrapper leaf is also very light in color, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably.

“Cameroon” is defined solely by its nation of origin – Cameroon, Africa – or its native seed, and not related to “Candela.” Although if it were cured to a light enough color, you could call it a “Cameroon Claro,” but it would most likely be defined in cigar terminology as “Colorado Claro.” I’ve yet to see a green Cameroon wrapper. If anyone else has, I’d like to know.